This year our family participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life 24 hour walk. It was a very humbling and moving experience for all of us as it has hit us pretty close to home many times. Mothers, fathers, grandparents, sisters, brothers and friends all have been affected by this horrible disease. It was an honor for me to be team captain for Lina's Legacy. Joe's sister Lina was recently diagnosed with stomach cancer and she wanted to
participate in this event to do our part in helping fight this disease. We had a great time and raised over $2500.00. Thank you again for all of you who helped support our team!
Setting up in the a.m.
Shakira, Lina and Julia take the first 'Survivors Lap' with
Kaden and Eli
Eli, Sophia,
Tinoly, Auntie Laura and
Kaden came down to support us
The Gonzalez' family friend Jose donated this beautiful praying Madonna (that he made) for the silent auction. Incredible!
The
Gouveia's family friend Suzy Mitchell put together this 'Family game/movie night' basket for the silent auction. Lots of fun!
Our god daughter Brianda painted this rose picture for the silent auction! Amazing! We sure do know a lot of talented people!
All the luminary bags we made in honor or in
memory of people with cancer.
Mariana, Jose and Gabby making 'wish bracelets' that we sold throughout the event.
Lina's son Luis and his friend Robert gave hugs for donations. We gave the girls the signs after they came back empty handed!
Lina's daughter Bianca and Tia
Mena do a little two
steppin' to keep the troops entertained
Look at all
those gorgeous gals!
Our team mascot...Speedy Gonzalez for a speedy recovery!
Our big money maker.. nachos, snow cones and Starbucks....
We were all very proud to
achieve silver team status...thanks to all of your donations! Yea!
Circle of friends in deep conversation about the 50 most useless facts that you "need to know"... Turns out we really didn't need to know....
The
Portuguese corner of the campsite.....
The luminary bags that lined the entire track...very heartwarming...